Anecdotes of Painting in England Volume IV, Horace Walpole, Editor, Leather Bound 1782

Overview A 1782 edition of Horace Walpole’s Anecdotes of Painting in England, Volume IV (and last), bound in contemporary calf and retaining a finely engraved armorial bookplate and matching period ownership inscription of Thomas Taylor, Armiger, of Denbury, Devon. Highlights 1782 London printing for J. Dodsley Original 18th-century calf binding Armorial bookplate: “Tho: Taylor Arm. de Denbury in Com: Devon” Matching ink ownership inscription “Tho: Taylor” Motto “Serva Fidem” Rococo cartouche engraving consistent with mid–late 18th century Clean text block with light age toning Why You Will Love It This is not simply a period copy—it is a copy with intact identity. The alignment of binding, bookplate, and inscription creates a coherent and credible provenance chain tied to an identifiable Devon gentry family. It offers both intellectual content and historical context in one object. Dating / Background Edited and published by Horace Walpole, based on the manuscripts of George Vertue, Anecdotes of Painting in England is one of the foundational works of English art history. Walpole (1717–1797), a major figure in 18th-century intellectual life, compiled Vertue’s research into a structured narrative of British artistic development. Provenance With engraved armorial bookplate of Thomas Taylor, Armiger, of Denbury, Devon, bearing the motto “Serva Fidem,” and a contemporary ownership inscription in ink (“Tho: Taylor”) to the front endpaper. The plate and inscription are stylistically consistent with late 18th-century usage and appear contemporary with the 1782 publication. Condition Leather binding shows wear consistent with age, including surface abrasions, corner bumps, and spine wear. Front board shows splitting at hinge but remains attached. Pages are clean with light toning and mild rumpling consistent with natural paper shrinkage rather than damage. Dimensions (inches) Height: 7.5 Width: 4.875 Depth: 1 Why Collect A foundational text in English art history with intact 18th-century provenance. The presence of a named armigerous owner with matching inscription elevates this beyond a standard copy and provides a traceable historical context. Why Buy From tonyofatlanta tonyofatlanta is an established, reputable, knowledgeable dealer who offers quality merchandise with quality service. Our shipping is prompt and secure. Our goods are curated for good taste. Customer Satisfaction We stand ready and willing to provide more information, further discussion, or additional photos to make sure that our merchandise satisfies your expectations. tonyofatlanta says We are proud to offer this fine volume with provenance and historical significance.